Pirate 1997 Scouting Report - Pitchers
Last Updated 28 March 1997
On Saturday, 11 Jan 1997, Mark Jareb
(mij6t@avery.med.virginia.edu) posted the following to the Pirate e-mail list. I have edited
it and included it here with his permission:
Abbreviations are:
-CAL, Calgary, the Bucs AAA team in the
PCL, Pacific Coast League
-CAR, Carolina, the Bucs AA team in the
SOU, Southern League
-LYN, Lynchburg, the Bucs A+ team in the
CRL, Carolina League
-AUG, Augusta, the Bucs A team in the
SAL, South Atlantic League
-ERI, Erie, the Bucs A- team in the
NYP, New York-Penn League
-GCL refers to the Bucs rookie team in the Gulf Coast League
-DSL refers to the team the Bucs field in the Dominican Summer
League. This team is primarily composed of teenagers from
the Dominican signed as non-drafted free agents.
Index: | Pirates
| Calgary
| Carolina
| Lynchburg
| Augusta
| Erie
| GCL
| Projections |
Pirates
Calgary AAA
Carolina AA
Jimmy Anderson: 21-1/22/76; #9 '94, Chesapeake,VA
(HS)
P, L-L, 6-1 180
Anderson lasted to the 9th round in '94 because
he had a scholarship to U. of Miami and was considered
unsignable. His main out pitch is a slider that
compliments his ~90 MPH fastball. He's moved up
extremely quickly yet he's done well at every level.
His K/IP has been good at all levels, though his BB
rate is a little higher than I like. On the other
hand, his HR totals and ERA's suggest he's groundball
pitcher who doesn't give up many XBH which I do like.
He'll probably start '97 in Calgary with a chance at
seeing some action in Pittsburgh depending on how he
pitches. Likely to be in Pittsburgh in '98.
G GS IP H HR BB K ERA
94 R 10 10 56.1 35 1 27 66 1.60
95 A 24 23 129.0 107 2 52 107 2.58
A+ 10 9 52.1 56 1 21 32 4.13
96 A+ 11 11 65.1 51 2 21 56 1.93
AA 17 16 97.0 92 3 44 79 3.34
Brett Backlund: 27-12/16/69; #5 '92, U. of Iowa
P, R-R, 6-0 195
What looked to be a promising career when he was
initially drafted, now looks like a career stalled at AAA.
Started '96 in the Calgary rotation was demoted again to AA and
ended up the year in Carolina's bullpen. If he pitches
in the Pirates organization in '97, it will be his
last year unless he makes it to the majors. After being
moved to the bullpen in Carolina his K/IP and K/BB were
impressive, but he gave up too many HR to really be called
effective. Likely will be in the bullpen for Carolina or
Calgary though there's a possibility his time is up already.
Blaine Beatty: 33-4/25/64; #9 '86 (BAL), Baylor U.
P, L-L, 6-2 185
He's been pitching in AA and AAA since 1987 and has only
had 2 cups of coffee to show for it. Not a power pitcher so
he's typically overlooked. Considering his minor league
numbers over the years and that he's LH, it's very
surprising he hasn't received much interest. Non-roster
invitee to spring training '97, he didn't make the cut.
Likely to pitch for the Mexico City Reds in '97.
Rafael Chaves: 28-11/1/68; NDFA '86(SD),
Isabella,PR(HS)
P, R-R, 6-0 195
A career minor league reliever who's never pitched above
AA, he's been pretty effective since joining the Bucs'
organization 2 years ago. Not considered a prospect at
all, he'll likely be the closer at Carolina in '97
Mariano De Los Santos: 26-7/13/70; NDFA '89,
Dominican(HS)
P, R-R, 5-10 200
Dropped off the 40-man roster in '94, he resurrected his
career somewhat when he moved to the bullpen late in '95.
Exclusively a middle reliever in '96, his K/IP was over 1.
A 6-year free agent, I think he resigned with the Bucs.
Likely to be in the bullpen in Calgary in '97. Also, most
likely of any unknown in the Bucs organization to pull a
Marc Wilkins (and make a surprise appearance and showing with the
Pirates in Pittsburgh).
Dennis Konuszewski: 26-2/4/71; #7 '92, U. of
Michigan
P, R-R, 6-3 210
Primarily a reliever during his career, his numbers were
quite average through '95. Got called up in September '95 --
faced 5 batters and the only out he recorded was
a sacrifice bunt. Taken off the 40-man roster before the
Rule V draft. In '96 he was simply bad, both at AAA and AA.
Might resurface in the bullpen at Calgary but more likely
to be gone.
Sean Lawrence: 26-9/2/70; #6 '92, St. Francis(IL)
P, L-L, 6-4 215
A control pitcher who strikes out batters at a decent
rate. His main downfall is giving up gopherballs. Primarily
a starter throughout his career, he was effective as a
middle reliever in Carolina in '96. Pitched in the AFL
this offseason as a starter and was less effective. Likely
that he'll end up as a LH middle reliever. Expect to
see him in that role in Calgary in '97.
Steve Phoenix: 29-1/31/68; NDFA '90(OAK)
P, R-R, 6-2 185
One of numerous career minor league pitchers that
the Bucs have in their system. Nothing that really
distinguishes Phoenix from them. If anything he's
probably a little wose than most in that group. Calgary
in '97 or gone to some other AAA team.
Matt Pontbriant: 25-5/20/72; #8 '91,
Brevard,FL(JC)
P, L-L, 6-4 200
Switched to a reliever in '96 at AA, he's moved
up pretty steadily (losing a year to injury in '93)
though his numbers on the whole just haven't been
that good. '96 was no exception. Could be gone as
a 6-yr minor league free agent. If he stays he'll
probably be in Carolina again.
Kevin Rychel: 25-9/24/71; #6 '89, Midland,TX(HS)
P, R-R, 5-9 176
Small for a pitcher, Rychel's biggest problem is his
control. The last two years he had it when he was in
Carolina as well as the AFL in '95 and was effective.
In 2 short stints in Calgary, he didn't have it and was
not effective. Hopefully he can carry that over to
Calgary in '97. He was a 6-yr minor league free agent
though, so he might also be with some other organization.
Scott M. Taylor: 30-10/3/66; #15 '89, U. of Kansas
P, R-R, 6-3 200
The Pirates are his 5th organization. Though he's been
at AAA the previous 3 seasons, the Pirates pitched him
at AA in '96. And his numbers were not that good. Yet,
he was a non-roster invitee to spring training '97,
though he's already been sent to the minor league camp.
I see him as just a body who will take up innings. I
expect he'll be doing that in Calgary in '97.
Lynchburg A (full season, high)
Todd Blyleven: 24-9/27/72; NDFA '93 (California), Villa
Park,CA
P, R-R, 6-5 230
Yes, the son of Bert Blyleven, he was in the Angels
organization but was let go in midseason '95 for
no apparent reason (his numbers weren't that bad
and he's not that old). Doesn't have the K/IP ratio you'd
like but he's was pretty effective in '96 and at times
before. However in 4 minor league seasons has pitched
less than 15 IP above A. My guess is that he'll be in
the bullpen in Carolina in '97.
G GS IP H HR BB K ERA
93 R 11 11 70.0 69 3 17 49 2.60
94 A- 12 5 45.2 43 2 14 53 2.17
A+ 8 6 42.1 38 4 17 33 2.98
95 AA 8 0 14.1 13 1 3 8 5.02
A+ 6 0 8.1 12 2 5 8 4.32
NOR 18 18 118.0 133 13 38 67 4.73
96 A 12 0 29.0 32 2 10 27 3.72
A+ 23 3 56.0 49 4 14 33 2.09
Michael Brown: 25-11/4/71; #5 '89,
Vacaville,CA(HS)
P(1B), L-L, 6-7 245
Converted from a 1B-man, this was his 1st season
pitching as a pro. A big LH with a fastball in the
low 90's, control is by far his biggest problem.
I imagine they'll give him another year to see
if he can develop as a pitcher and harness his control.
Probably will be back in Lynchburg, though I wouldn't
rule out starting '97 in Carolina. Time is not on his
side since he only started to focus on pitching at
the age of 24, hence moving up levels quickly is
particularly important for Brown to have a future.
G GS IP H HR BB K ERA
96 A+ 34 110 69.1 91 6 52 62 7.01
Tim Collie: 23-7/5/73; #24 '95, UNC-Charlotte
P, R-R, 5-11 185
A flyball pitcher, Collie has been a fairly effective
reliever (used primarily as a closer). His K/IP isn't
great, but he doesn't walk many (4 of the 10 BB
at A+ were intentional). I think he may have problems
with HR and XBH as he moves up the ladder. We'll see.
Probably will start '97 in Lynchburg with a midseason
promotion to Carolina likely.
G GS IP H HR BB K ERA
95 NCAA 17 na 125.0 102 na 21 102 2.94
95 A- 29 0 36.0 32 1 9 27 2.00
96 A 24 0 29.2 28 1 4 20 2.12
A+ 24 0 25.0 26 2 10 14 3.60
Chris Corn: 25-10/4/71; #21 '94 (NYY), U. of
Kansas
P, R-R, 6-2 170
Acquired from the Yankees in exchange for Charlie
Hayes. He has a wicked curve that compliments an
average fastball. After moving up a level and
being converted to a starter his K/IP tumbled
though his BB rate was even lower. He seemed
to tire toward the end of '96 as he threw more
innings than ever before. Pitched in relief for
Carolina during the playoffs, though not very well.
Will start '97 in the rotation at Carolina.
G GS IP H HR BB K ERA
94 NCAA 16 na 108.0 108 na 49 76 4.42
94 A- 21 2 50.2 49 4 19 51 3.73
95 A 49 0 82.0 54 3 22 101 1.76
A+ 4 0 5.2 3 0 3 9 3.18
96 A+ 26 25 170.1 145 10 38 109 2.91
Kane Davis: 22-6/25/75; #13 '93, Reedy,WV(HS)
P, R-R, 6-3 180
Added to the 40-man roster this winter as well as
rated the #9 overall prospect of the Bucs in '95 by
Baseball America. Scouts say he has 3 above average
pitches: a low 90's fastball, a hard slider, and a
straight change. On the other hand, his performance
thus far doesn't scream out top prospect -- he's put
up decent numbers but his K/IP ratio has only been
average. His performance in Carolina in '97, IMO will
be particularly telling as to his future.
G GS IP H HR BB K ERA
93 R 11 4 28.0 34 19 24 7.07
94 A- 15 15 98.1 90 4 32 74 2.65
95 A 26 25 139.1 136 4 43 78 3.75
96 A+ 26 26 157.1 160 12 56 116 4.29
John Dillinger: 23-8/28/73; #20 '92,
Manatee,FL(JC)
P, R-R, 6-6 230
A native of Connellsville and a big Bucco fan all his
life, Dillinger was added to the 40-man roster this
season much to my surprise at the time. The key reason
for his stock rising so rapidly was his excellent
performance at Lynchburg once he was moved from the pen
into the rotation. In his final 14 starts, he put up a
2.27 ERA in 95.1 IP giving up just 62 hits while walking
29 and K'ing 79. Dillinger's best pitches are his fastball
and slider which seem to be quite effective when they're
around the strike zone -- his BB rate in the last half
of '96 was vastly better than any previous season. He'll
start '97 in the rotation at Carolina.
G GS IP H HR BB K ERA
92 R 13 10 52.0 43 na 42 45 3.44
93 R* 15 15 80.0 65 na 60 94 3.92
94 A 23 22 119.2 107 5 54 118 4.29
95 A+ 27 22 123.0 111 10 67 97 4.02
96 A+ 33 15 132.1 101 11 58 113 3.74
* --> played for Lethbridge, a co-op team, in the Pioneer League
Aaron France: 23-4/17/74; #3 '94, Cypress,FL(JC)
P, L-R, 6-3 175
Put up extremely good numbers his first 2 seasons in
Welland and Augusta. Promoted to Lynchburg in '96
and pitched pretty poorly there, though he spent part
of the year on the DL. Pitched at Augusta at the end
of the year when he was healthy and put up very good
numbers again. France has a live arm and it strikes
me that arm problems had more to do with his struggles
versus moving up a level. Should begin '97 in Lynchburg
again, though he may not be in the rotation simply due
to a logjam of quality pitchers. Likely the first
candidate to replace anyone in the rotation at Lynchburg
who's struggling.
Jason Johnson: 23-10/27/73; NDFA '92, Burlington,
KY
P, R-R, 6-6 220
Third consecutive year that he's pitched part of the
season in Augusta which is not a good sign. At times, he
has put up good K/IP numbers, but pitched really poorly
in Lynchburg to start '96. One possibility for the
bad numbers was that'96 was the his first season in
the bullpen. When he was sent back down to Augusta, he pitched
well as a starter. If he's still with the Pirates, he's
likely in the bullpen in Lynchburg where he must do
well or he'll be gone by '98. Almost needs to pitch
well enough to get called up to Carolina if he's going
to have MLB ever in his future.
Jeff Kelly: 22-1/11/75; #15 '94, Staten
Island,NY(HS)
P, L-L, 6-6 215
Added to the 40-man roster this offseason, Kelly
inexplicably started '96 in Augusta after putting
together a very good season there in '95 (had a little
bit better numbers than Kane Davis that year).
Pitched well again and got promoted to Lynchburg
midseason where he put up good numbers (again
fairly similar to Davis' numbers in '96 at Lynchburg).
Just as likely to start '97 in Carolina as Lynchburg.
John Kelly: 24-12/13/72; #11 '94(Mets), U. of
Connecticut
P, R-R, 6-0 180
Acquired from the Mets in '96 in a trade for Jon
Farrell. He didn't pitch much in '96 for Lynchburg
(and pitched even less in the Mets organization) so
I'm assuming he was injured for the first half of '96.
Pitched in the Hawaii Winter league in '96 to get some
innings and pitched OK -- a good K/IP and K/BB though
a high ERA. Overall, he's put up pretty good numbers
throughout his minor league career, but he's a tad
old for the levels at which he's played. Also, he's
small as pitchers go, so he's unlikely to get the benefit
of the doubt. He'll be in the bullpen either at Carolina
or Lynchburg to start '97, though it's also a possibility
that he won't be anywhere.
Jeff Martin: 23-1/25/74; #8 '95(KC), Las
Vegas,NV(HS)
P, R-R, 6-1 200
Acquired in the King/Bell trade with Kansas City, he
perhaps
could be the gem of that trade. There's some question
surrounding
his age, but it's a definite that he pitched in high school in
'95 so I think he will be 20 years old in '97 (or he was age 21
when drafted out of high school). Part of the confusion is
that he has the command of a more experienced pitcher. He throws
four different pitches with decent velocity and movement but
his control and knowledge of when to use them belies his age.
Started '96 in Wilmington before shoulder tendinitis shut him
down most of the year. Rebounded to pitch extremely well in
the Hawaii Winter League. Probably will start the year in
the rotation in Lynchburg, though Carolina at some point in
'97 is likely.
Rick Paugh: 25-2/6/72; #45 '94, Marshall U.(WV)
P, L-L, 6-1 190
A LH set-up reliever throughout his career, his K/IP
and K/BB have been good at every level, though they've
declined slightly as he's moved up. His possible MLB
future is that of a LH specialty reliever. Considering
his age, his '97 in Carolina will be a make or break
year in determining if he has a MLB future at all.
Jason Phillips: 23-3/2/74; #14 '92, Muncy,PA(HS)
P, R-R, 6-6 215
A fairly big guy who's a hard thrower, control is
his biggest nemesis. '96 was his 3rd year at Augusta
and he finally harnessed his control to get a promotion
to Lynchburg midseason where he pitched decently.
Probably will start '97 in the rotation at Lynchburg,
though he strikes me as the type of pitcher who may get
moved to the bullpen.
Kevin Pickford: 22-3/12/75; #2 '93, Clovis,CA(HS)
P, L-L, 6-3 200
A 2nd round pick as compensation for Drabek's signing
with Houston, Pickford has progressed fairly well so
far. He has excellent control, but his K/IP is
low. Because of this, he tends to give up a lot of
hits, though his ERA stays relatively low because few
are for extra bases. Since, he's been proomoted at a
fairly aggressive pace, I'd expect to see him in the
rotation at Carolina in '97.
Matt Spade: 24-12/4/72; #28 '94, Marshall U.
P, R-R, 6-4 180
A native of Boyertown, PA, Spade has been a teammate
of LH setup reliever Rick Paugh at every level and
in college. He's been the primary RH setup reliever
the past 2 years and has been very effective in that
role. Has put up very good K/IP and K/BB numbers
as well as a low ERA each season. Will be the primary
set up RH reliever in Carolina in '97.
Matt Williams: 26-4/12/71; #4 '92 (CLE), Va. Commonwealth
U.
P, B-L, 6-0 170
Throughout his career, he's either lacked control or
given
up the long ball, leading to the Pirates being his 3rd
organization. Since '94 he's given up 44 HR in about 300
IP which is extremely high for A ball. Though he had a
very good K/IP in '96, his career is probably over.
Augusta A (full season, low)
Bronson Arroyo: 20-2/24/77; #3 '95,
Brooksville,FL(HS)
P, R-R, 6-5 165
Lanky and athletic, Arroyo has a pretty good fastball
coupled with very good control. As he'll likely fill
out his frame over the next couple of years, it wouldn't
be surprising to see him add a little velocity to his
pitches. He projects well at this point, but we only have
2 years of performance with which to evaluate. He'll start
'97 in Lynchburg; it's more of a hitter's park and league than
he's faced in the past. It should be a good test for him.
G GS IP H HR BB K ERA
95 R 13 9 61.1 72 4 9 48 4.26
96 A 26 26 135.2 123 11 36 107 3.52
Mike Ayers: 23-12/23/73; NDFA '96,
Cincinnati,OH(?)
P, L-L, 5-10 190
A relatively short, stocky LH, I have absolutely no
idea where he came from. Pitched decently in relief
with an pretty good K/IP and K/BB ratio. Probably
earned himself a promotion to Lynchburg in '97, though
his age, ERA and the fact that Augusta is a strong
pitcher's park might mean he's history.
G GS IP H HR BB K ERA
96 A 27 0 30.1 33 1 8 31 4.15
Derek Bullock: 24-2/24/73; #20 '95, Briar Cliff
(IA)
P, R-R, 6-2 186
From the same college as Reed Secrist, Bullock spent the
first part of the year on the DL. Once he started
pitching, he was quite impressive. Old for the level he's
been playing, still he's had the best ERA of any starter
on the teams he played for thus far. He'll probably find
his way into the starting rotation in Lynchburg sometime
in '97 but simply due to the numbers game, he'll probably
start the year in the pen.
G GS IP H HR BB K ERA
95 A- 11 11 65.0 65 0 15 27 2.35
96 A 14 8 60.2 55 1 16 52 2.08
Jason Farrow: 23-7/30/73; #27 '95, U. of Houston
P, R-R, 6-2 195
A closer in college, he's been used primarily as
a set-up reliever thus far. He's been very effective
in that role with a K/IP ratio over 1 in both '95
and '96. Looks to continue in that role for Lynchburg
in '97.
G GS IP H HR BB K ERA
95 NCAA 27 na 48.0 36 na 22 40 3.59
A- 20 4 48.1 44 0 20 50 2.23
96 A 46 0 77.1 61 3 34 81 2.09
Jeff Havens: 24-3/5/73; #12 '94 (ChiN), San
Jacinto(JC)
P, R-R, 6-1 185
Apparently released by the Cubs in '94, Havens
resurfaced in Augusta in '96. Pitched OK. Roughly
the same probability of being in Lynchburg as Ayers --
probably but not a definite.
G GS IP H HR BB K ERA
94 A- 4 0 6.1 12 0 2 2 11.37
95 DNP
96 A 34 1 44.1 51 2 12 43 3.65
Elvin Hernandez: 19-8/20/77; NDFA '94,
Dominican(HS)
P, R-R, 6-1 165
Hernandez quite simply has excelled at every level he's
pitched,
and he's almost always been one of, if not, the youngest pitcher
in the league. Still filling out his frame it's likely he'll
add velocity over the next couple of years and his fastball,
though
not particularly hard is already pretty good. His best asset is
his command of offspeed and breaking pitches which translates
into
his low walk totals with many strikeouts. Basically his K/IP
and
K/BB are excellent. I thought he'd be
in Lynchburg in '97 but the reports are saying that the Bucs plan
to bump
him up to AA Carolina.
G GS IP H HR BB K ERA
94 DSL 11 11 70.0 62 na 13 68 2.70
95 A- 14 14 90.1 82 8 22 54 2.89
96 A 27 27 157.2 140 13 16 171 3.14
DOM 6 0 18.1 7 0 8 10 1.47
Joe Maskivish: 25-8/14/71; #37 '94, West Liberty St.
(PA)
P, R-R, 6-4 180
A true submariner, Maskivish made a splash in '95
setting
Augusta's save record by the All-Star break. Shortly
thereafter though, he hurt his arm and was done for the season.
Started '96 in Lynchburg, wasn't too effective and was sent
back down to Augusta where he pitched well. Although
his numbers are good, he's old for his level and his style
suggests he won't be effective at higher levels. Still,
you never know. Will be in Lynchburg in '97.
G GS IP H HR BB K ERA
94 A- 28 0 28.0 19 0 10 27 1.93
95 A 26 0 29.2 23 0 9 33 2.12
96 A+ 12 0 10.2 17 1 5 10 6.75
A 50 0 50.0 46 0 14 58 2.16
Craig Mattson: 23-11/25/73; #14 '94, Triton,IL(JC)
P, R-R, 6-4 205
Be-set with injury problems the last couple of years,
Mattson has looked OK when he was healthy enough to
pitch. Probably will start '97 in the pen in Lynchburg,
but it all depends on his health.
G GS IP H HR BB K ERA
93 A- 18 0 30.0 25 na 5 32 2.12
94 A 54 0 70.0 65 3 30 78 3.60
95 A+ 11 0 11.2 11 1 0 5 3.09
96 R 1 0 1.0 0 0 0 0 0.00
A 18 0 25.1 19 2 7 18 1.93
A+ 6 0 7.0 10 3 5 4 7.71
Brian O'Connor: 20-1/4/77; #11 '95, Redding,OH(HS)
P, L-L, 6-2 175
His best pitch is a biting curveball that he compliments
with a pretty decent fastball (mid-to-upper 80's). He also
throws a slider and change. Had excellent numbers in
'95 in the GCL and the first half of the year in Augusta
primarily as a reliever. Sent to Erie to get more innings
in as a starter and for whatever reason he had problems
with control which led to somewhat poor numbers at Erie.
One reason for the control problems was that he was trying
to pitch to finely. Even with the downturn in performance
at Erie he still kept his K/IP nearly at 1. As long as he
doesn't have control problems, he's an excellent pitcher and
there's no reason to think that they'll persist. I'm guessing
he'll start the year in the rotation at Augusta, though
beginning the year at Lynchburg is a definite possibility.
G GS IP H HR BB K ERA
95 R 14 5 43.0 33 1 13 43 1.88
96 A 19 0 35.1 33 2 8 37 3.06
A- 15 15 67.2 76 4 47 60 5.85
Jose Reyes: 24-5/1/73; NDFA '93, Dominican
Republic
P, R-R, 6-1 188
He pitched poorly in a pitcher's park in a pitcher's
league. There is a great probability that he won't be back
in the organization.
G GS IP H HR BB K ERA
95 A- 19 7 58.1 53 2 29 44 3.39
96 A 23 8 67.0 79 8 30 57 6.18
Carl South: 22-4/14/75; #23 '93 (Los Angeles),
Marietta,GA(HS)
P, R-R, 6-5 210
Acquired from LA in exchange for Dave Clark, Carl South
appears to have broken out in '96. He has an
above average fastball but had major control
problems as well as a penchant for giving up
XBH his first couple of seasons. He started '96 as a
reliever and was pitching quite poorly. He was placed
in Savannah's (LA affiliate in the SAL) rotation
about midseason and excelled from that point -- as
a starter he had 64 IP giving up 43 H and 26 BB while
K'ing 59 with a 2.25 ERA. He'll be in the starting
rotation at Lynchburg next season.
G GS IP H HR BB K ERA
94 R 15 6 42.0 53 3 35 32 8.14
95 A- 13 10 55.2 72 4 19 30 6.14
96 A 34 11 102.0 90 8 44 93 4.06
Randy Viegas: 21-8/22/75; #7 '94, Roseville, CA
(HS)
P, L-L, 6-2 175
A LHP with a decent arm, he's running out of time
to show his potential. Control problems have
really hurt him. Whether he's in the minors in
'97 is really dependent on how he pitches in the
instructional league and spring training.
He'll probably be back in Augusta to start '97 if he's back
at all.
G GS IP H HR BB K ERA
94 R 12 11 67.2 55 6 31 44 4.12
95 R 6 4 28.1 28 0 5 24 2.54
A- 8 1 10.0 14 0 9 9 6.30
96 A- 2 0 3.2 4 0 4 3 7.36
A 13 0 18.2 16 0 14 15 6.27
Jeff Wallace: 21-4/12/76; #25 '95(KC),
Minerva,OH(HS)
P, L-L, 6-2 237
A big left hander acquired in the trade with KC
involving King and Bell. He has a live arm that
dominated the GCL in '95. '96 in the Midwest
League was different story where lack of control
seemed to get the better of him. Though he's
started a fair amount and will likely be a starter
next season, his future is probably in relief.
Probably in the rotation in Lynchburg in '97,
though it's possible that he'll start the year in
Augusta.
G GS IP H HR BB K ERA
95 R 12 7 44.0 28 0 15 51 1.23
96 A 30 21 122.1 140 10 66 84 5.30
Danny Young: 25-11/3/71; NDFA '91 (Houston),
Woodbury,TN
P, R-L, 6-5 180
The Bucs somehow picked him up from the Astros
in the offseason in '93. He has pitched at least
part of the season in the SAL for 5 seasons now.
Yes, he's big LHP who throws hard, but he can't find the strike
zone. He's gotten a lot of chances, but this is a little
ridiculous. He should be out of the Bucs' organization
to give somebody else a chance.
G GS IP H HR BB K ERA
91 R 13 7 33.0 32 na 39 41 7.99
92 A 20 20 95.0 106 na 70 64 4.28
93 A 32 24 143.0 174 na 95 101 6.12
94 A+ 10 0 18.2 32 2 9 12 7.71
A 21 9 66.2 58 2 33 73 3.38
95 A 6 2 14.1 9 0 16 11 2.51
A+ 24 2 41.1 52 3 27 34 7.40
96 A 22 1 33.2 36 1 29 36 5.88
Ryan Young: 24-6/16/73; NDFA '95, Charlotte, NC
P, R-R, 6-0 175
Though he got a lot of starts the last couple of years,
he doesn't project well at all. Low K rate, yet
gives up a fair number of HR. He'll probably be out of
the organization.
G GS IP H HR BB K ERA
95 A- 16 10 67.2 62 5 17 38 2.79
96 A 21 18 96.0 117 8 32 48 5.72
Erie A (short season)
Paul Ah Yat: 23-10/13/73; #21 '96, U. of Hawaii
P, R-L, 6-1 196
Full name is Paul Anthony Papalekaimana Ah Yat. More of
a starter in his last year at Hawaii, he was an OK college
pitcher. Sent straight to Erie and was effective as a LH
set-up man. Not really considered a prospect but his K/IP
and K/BB suggest that he's worth keeping an eye on.
Probably in Augusta in '97 with a callup to Lynchburg a
definite possibility.
G GS IP H HR BB K ERA
94 NCAA 21 5 59.2 61 na 42 38 4.53
95 NCAA 16 6 60.1 71 na 22 45 4.92
96 NCAA 19 na 112.0 122 na 37 87 4.66
96 A- 26 0 27.2 24 1 6 34 3.25
Jose Luis Avila: 22-3/4/75; NDFA '94, Venezuela
P, R-R, 6-2 195 (or 5-7 200)
He put up a solid year at Erie with a nice K/IP.
Good enough stuff to pitch as a reliever in Venezuela
Winter Leagues as well. He's on the roster for his Winter
league team, though, he's listed at 5-7 200 as
opposed to the 6-2 195 in Baseball America's Almanac.
Looks to be in the rotation in Augusta in '97.
G GS IP H HR BB K ERA
96 A- 14 14 78.0 75 4 33 74 4.04
96 VEN 10 0 17.2 13 0 12 8 1.53
Scott Beach: 23-10/18/73; #42 '95, Pittsburg
St.(KAN)
P, R-R, 6-4 175
His biggest problem is his control and though he had a
good ERA
in Erie in '96, he doesn't look like he overcame it. I'm
guessing he has decent velocity and that's about it. He could
be in the pen in Augusta in '97 though it's just as possible
that he's out of baseball.
G GS IP H HR BB K ERA
95 A- 14 0 18.0 24 3 17 8 7.50
96 R 7 0 7.2 16 0 3 4 10.57
A- 17 0 22.0 16 0 14 25 1.64
Wyatt Brooks: 23-12/13/73; #30 '96, U. of North
Florida
P, R-L, 6-1 165
Similar to Ah Yat, in that he's an older college pitcher
who was effective as a LH set-up man in Erie. Probably
in Augusta in '97 as well.
G GS IP H HR BB K ERA
96 A- 15 0 23.1 20 1 7 24 1.54
Tedde Campbell: 24-7/2/72; NDFA '95,
Blairsville,PA
P, R-R, 6-0 190
Signed as a replacement player in '95, though he
didn't see any action in the Bucs organization until
'96. From somewhat near my hometown, he was one of the closers
at Erie. Has a fastball in the low 90's. Likely to
be in Augusta in '97.
G GS IP H HR BB K ERA
96 A- 27 0 32.1 24 2 16 30 3.34
Michael Chaney: 22-10/3/74; #16 '96, Bowling
Green(KY)
P, L-L, 6-3 200
An occasional emergency starter for Erie in '96 (Bucs
have
fairly strict limits on how often/much pitchers could pitch,
so there were games where "starters" were scheduled to pitch
only 2 or 3 innings), his performance was the worst of the
other LHP in Erie. He might be in Augusta in '97, or he might be
gone.
G GS IP H HR BB K ERA
96 NCAA 15 11 59.0 56 5 21 48 2.75
96 A- 10 5 29.0 27 1 14 21 5.28
David Daniels: 23-7/25/73; NDFA '95
P, R-R, 6-2 185
Like Campbell, he was signed as a replacement player.
He started the
season in Augusta and then was sent to Erie where he was the
closer. Excellent control; of his 8 BB in '96,
4 were intentional. He'll be in Augusta in '97.
G GS IP H HR BB K ERA
96 A 11 0 12.1 21 0 3 14 5.11
96 A- 31 0 36.1 33 3 5 45 2.72
George Elmore: 23-5/13/74; #18 '96, Lucama,NC
P, R-R, 6-5 245
A big guy who must have caught someone's eye in a
semi-pro league, as he didn't seem to be drafted
out of any college. He probably throws hard, but has
control problems. He may be in Augusta in '97, but
probably more likely will be out of baseball.
G GS IP H HR BB K ERA
96 A- 19 0 32.0 38 1 21 17 4.78
Luis Gonzalez: 23-5/3/74; #22 '96, U. of New
Mexico
P, R-R, 6-2 190
Decent K/BB rate, but he gives up too many hits;
overall,
a poor performance in '96. More likely to be out of
baseball rather than in Augusta in '97.
G GS IP H HR BB K ERA
96 NCAA 15 na 108.0 127 na 40 94 5.00
96 A- 21 1 25.1 32 2 6 19 5.68
Jason Haynie: 23-3/29/74; #11 '96, U. of South
Carolina
P, L-L, 6-0 190
Haynie throws 3 pitches pretty well, including
a fastball in the upper 80's. He had good numbers in
his senior year playing in the strong SEC. He put
up a good K/IP and K/BB at Erie as well. Should
be in the rotation in Augusta in '97.
G GS IP H HR BB K ERA
96 NCAA 17 na 108.0 108 na 39 86 3.43
96 A- 16 12 80.1 86 2 22 74 3.25
Neal McDade: 21-6/16/76; #29 '95 (D&F), Florida CC
P, R-R, 6-3 165
A draft and follow from '95, McDade was the ace of
the staff in Erie. Because Lynchburg played 5 games in 3
days to end the season and had a shot at the playoffs,
McDade was sent up to Lynchburg to pitch in a DH the
last day of the season. Though, he wasn't too effective,
it's telling that the Bucs thought pretty highly of him.
He will be in the rotation in Augusta to start '97 but could
move up.
G GS IP H HR BB K ERA
96 A- 13 13 76.2 76 3 21 67 3.40
A+ 1 1 5.0 6 1 1 2 9.00
Rafael Santos: 21-10/24/75; NDFA '93,
Dominican(HS)
P, R-R, 6-2 185
Has spent 3 seasons now in short-season ball. Not a
good sign, but he probably pitched well enough to
have a shot in the bullpen in Augusta in '97.
G GS IP H HR BB K ERA
94 R 17 0 20.0 12 0 11 11 0.45
95 R 11 10 51.1 63 1 27 26 6.31
A- 2 0 1.0 0 0 2 1 0.00
96 A- 18 4 54.2 55 5 19 32 3.79
Jess Siciliano: 20-8/31/76; #9 '96, Rockland(NY)
CC
P, R-R, 6-2 190
Probably a hard thrower with control problems
who needs help with his mechanics. Depending
on how he did in winter instructional league, he
will either be in the pen in Erie or out
of baseball.
G GS IP H HR BB K ERA
96 A- 4 0 5.1 7 0 4 4 6.75
R 3 0 5.0 4 0 2 1 3.60
Maximo Villar: 20-10/11/76; NDFA '94,
Dominican(HS)
P, R-R, 6-3 175
Must have shown something at some point to
have warranted getting innings as a starter.
Yet, his performance is suggestive that he
won't be playing in the Pirates organization
in '97.
G GS IP H HR BB K ERA
95 R 6 3 20.0 29 2 9 13 7.20
96 A- 9 9 28.2 46 3 9 10 7.22
Gulf Coast (Rookie League)
Carlos Alvarado: 19-1/24/78; NDFA '95,
Arecibo,PR(HS)
P, R-R, 6-4 195
Good size, good K/IP ratio and quite young having first
appeared in the GCL at age 17. He'll probably be in the bullpen
in Erie in '97.
G GS IP H HR BB K ERA
95 R 2 0 3.0 1 0 5 2 6.00
96 R 11 1 27.1 32 1 10 31 4.94
David Alvarado: 19-4/29/78; NDFA '95,
Venezuela(HS)
P, R-R, 6-3 170
I can literally write the exact same thing as I did
for the other Alvarado (and I will). Good size, good
K/IP ratio and quite young having first appeared in
the GCL at age 17. He'll probably be in the bullpen in Erie
in '97.
G GS IP H HR BB K ERA
95 R 9 2 15.0 15 1 4 15 4.80
96 R 1 0 4.0 0 0 1 8 0.00
Franklin Bravo: 18-12/24/78; NDFA '96,
Dominican(HS)
P, R-R, 6-2 170
Signed out of the Dominican at age 17, but the Bucs
decided to play him in the GCL rather than the DSL.
Not that great of a K/IP ratio but everything else
looked very good. Considering he gave up on average
1 hit/IP yet had a 2.32 ERA, my guess is that he's a
sinkerball pitcher with good control. If he adds
some velocity, which is likely since he'll be 18 in '97,
he could become very good given his command. I wouldn't
be surprised to see him in Augusta to start '97 but it's
just as likely that, because of his age, the Bucs may bring
him along slowly and have him pitch only in Erie next
year.
G GS IP H HR BB K ERA
96 R 11 11 62.0 62 1 10 36 2.32
Ender Classen: 19-4/1/78; #29 '96, Arecibo,PR(HS)
P, R-R, 6-3 185
When he was drafted out of Puerto Rico, he was listed as
a SS. I'm assuming the Bucs looked at his arm (probably
even before they drafted him) and thought that he had
a better future as a Pitcher. Since it's likely that he
doesn't have much pitching experience, I'm guessing
that he'll be back in the GCL to start '97.
G GS IP H HR BB K ERA
96 R 7 0 7.2 12 0 3 6 4.70
O.J. Cook: 20-12/13/76; #6 '95, Bethlehem,PA(HS)
P, R-R, 6-3 195
Yes, his first name stands for Orenthal James. 1996 was
his
2nd year in the GCL; my guess is that it was mostly to work on
his control and mechanics plus to learn another pitch
besides his fastball. His fastball can reach 90+ MPH
already. Likely to be in Augusta in '97, though I
wouldn't expect sparkling numbers for him at that level.
G GS IP H HR BB K ERA
95 R 12 7 34.2 33 1 22 25 3.63
96 R 11 6 50.2 43 4 19 36 3.55
Cordell Dunn: 21-11/3/75; #12 '94, Tunica,MS(HS)
P, R-R, 6-2 185
Pitched a little in Augusta before coming back to the
GCL for the 3rd straight year. A great probablility
that he won't be in the Bucs organization in '97.
G GS IP H HR BB K ERA
94 R 11 1 22.2 22 0 19 4 5.96
95 R 5 0 10.0 13 0 4 5 5.40
96 A 3 3 10.2 14 1 9 7 12.66
R 7 6 28.0 32 1 14 24 5.46
Ricardo Finol: 23-5/10/74; #46 '96, Navarro,TX(JC)
P, B-R, 6-0 170
A native of Venezuela, he's on the old side for being
drafted out of Junior College. His numbers weren't
particularly impressive in the GCL either. For some
reason, I think the Bucs will give him another chance,
this time in the pen in Erie.
G GS IP H HR BB K ERA
96 R 6 0 10.0 19 1 5 9 9.00
VEN 2 0 3.2 2 0 1 0 2.45
Travis Gaerte: 20-10/21/76; #14 '95,
Fremont,IN(HS)
P, R-R, 6-3 180
He pitched well in his second stint in the GCL. He was
used
as a closer at times; he probably has pretty good
velocity, but is raw and doesn't always have the best
control. Probably in Erie in '97 but perhaps in
Augusta.
G GS IP H HR BB K ERA
95 R 6 0 12.0 14 2 2 5 6.00
96 R 14 0 30.0 17 0 18 24 2.40
Ryan Gillispie: 20-3/29/77; #18 '95, San
Diego,CA(HS)
P, R-R, 6-6 200
His lack of appearances the last 2 seasons don't bode
well for his future. However, I'm almost sure that
I saw him listed on Augusta's roster to start '96, but
he was on the DL. I give him a 50/50 chance of being
gone or pitching in Erie in '97.
G GS IP H HR BB K ERA
95 R 4 0 7.1 8 0 6 4 2.45
96 R 1 0 3.0 4 0 0 5 0.00
Roger Goedde: 21-5/19/76; #2 '94,
Evansville,IN(HS)
P, R-R, 6-4 180
Something horribly wrong happened with Goedde in Erie
in '95. I do think he was on the DL to start '96 -- an
injury that probably happened early in his time at Erie.
To give you a sense of how off he was there, in addition
to the 17 BB in 20.1 IP he had 13 WP. Looked promising
at first but I suspect he's done in the Pirates
organization.
G GS IP H HR BB K ERA
94 R 9 9 47.1 41 0 19 35 2.09
95 R 6 6 31.0 31 0 7 25 2.61
A- 5 5 20.1 31 1 17 8 7.97
96 R 12 3 28.2 45 2 11 23 9.10
Michael Gresko: 20-10/27/76; #25 '96, Mercer
County,NJ(CC)
P, L-L, 6-8 200
If he wasn't a lefty who was 6-8, I'd say that he's
likely
gone. But he is a big lefty, so I bet that he gets another
shot probably at Erie in '97. Control or lack thereof will
determine how far he moves up.
G GS IP H HR BB K ERA
96 R 5 0 6.0 3 1 5 7 3.00
Keith Heberling: 24-9/21/72; #46 '92 (D&F NYY), Indian
River,FL(JC)
P, L-L, 6-3 200
Traded by the Yankees to the White Sox in exchange for
Jack McDowell during the '94 off-season, he blew out his arm in spring
training and didn't pitch at all in '95. The Bucs picked him
up from the ChiSox in the minor league portion of the Rule V
draft in December '95 knowing he'd be rehabbing all of '96.
Bonifay has a penchant for picking up guys like this (eg. Ericks
and Parris) and the strategy has been pretty successful thus far.
Likely to start the year in Lynchburg pitching long/middle relief
to build up arm strength. His progress will be very interesting
to watch.
G GS IP H HR BB K ERA
93 A- 4 3 27.1 20 0 8 27 0.90
A 11 11 69.2 47 3 18 74 2.07
94 A+ 22 22 138.2 149 7 37 121 2.92
AA 6 6 35.0 44 3 6 21 5.66
95 injured -- DNP
96 R 1 0 1.0 0 0 0 1 0.00
George Hlodan: 21-6/25/76; #28 '95 (D&F),
Elizabeth,PA(JC?)
P, R-R, 6-0 170
He pitched well, though not enough K's/IP. A good bet
to be in Erie in '97.
G GS IP H HR BB K ERA
96 R 7 6 27.0 29 0 7 15 2.67
Andrew Hohenstein: 19-9/27/77; #7 '96,
Riverside,CA(HS)
P, R-R, 6-4 210
A big kid, who's pretty raw. Likely will be in the GCL
again in '97.
G GS IP H HR BB K ERA
96 R 7 5 26.1 36 1 12 18 3.08
Andy Prater: 19-9/27/77; #2 '96, Florrisant,MO(HS)
P, R-R, 6-3 175
A surprise 2nd round pick in the '96 draft, Prater
at this point has only a decent fastball but with
very good command. The Pirates project that he'll
add velocity in the next two years. That coupled
with his command could make for a dominating pitcher.
Definitely had a good season in the GCL. Will start
'97 in the rotation at Augusta.
G GS IP H HR BB K ERA
96 HS na na 56.0 36 na 16 85 1.76
96 R 12 12 68.0 63 3 11 53 3.18
Brian Settle: 19-7/17/77; #13 '95,
Portsmouth,VA(HS)
P, R-R, 6-5 190
He just can't seem to find the strike zone. Highly
likely that he'll not be in the organization in '97.
G GS IP H HR BB K ERA
95 R 11 0 20.2 25 4 20 11 8.27
96 R 7 0 11.1 5 0 14 13 7.94
Daniel Tobias: 21-8/20/75; #26 '96, Oregon,OH(?)
P, R-R, 6-5 200
50/50 chance of being in Augusta in '97 or out of
the organization. The one thing in his favor is
that he's a big guy, the big negative is his age
coupled with lack of experience.
G GS IP H HR BB K ERA
96 R 5 0 5.2 4 0 4 4 1.59
Bobby Vogt: 18-10/19/78; #8 '96, Tampa,FL(HS)
P, L-L, 6-6 200
He looks very promising. He put up very good numbers,
and he was the second pitcher on the team. A big
LH with a good arm that projects to be better as he
gets a little older. My guess is that he starts
the year in the bullpen in Augusta and might get sent
to Erie to start later in the year (like Brian O'Connor
in '96).
G GS IP H HR BB K ERA
96 R 13 5 42.2 36 2 19 46 2.95
Jason Wright: 21-8/28/75; #41 '95, Palomar,CA(JC)
P, R-R, 6-4 230
Was the primary closer in the GCL and was quite
effective. He's a big guy, so he's probably a flamethrower. Likely to
be in the pen in Augusta in '97 (probably as the closer there).
G GS IP H HR BB K ERA
96 R 13 0 20.1 13 1 6 25 1.33
Projections:
Bucs:
Calgary:
Carolina:
Starters: Corn, K. Davis, Dillinger, E. Hernandez, Pickford
Bullpen: Backlund, Blyleven, M. Brown, Chaves, Paugh, Spade
Lynchburg:
Starters: Arroyo, Bullock, Jeff Kelly, Martin, South
Bullpen: Collie, Farrow, France, Heberling, Maskivish,
Mattson, Phillips and Wallace
Augusta:
Starters: Avila, Haynie, McDade, O'Connor, Prater
Bullpen: Ah Yat, Bravo, Brooks, Campbell, Cook, Daniels,
Gaerte, Santos, Vogt, Wright
Erie:
Starters: Bravo, Vogt
Bullpen: C. Alvarado, D. Alvarado, Finol, Gresko, Hlodan
Gulf Coast League:
Classen, Hohenstein
Is there something here you like, that needs to be changed,
or would you like to see something that is not included?
Send me an
e-mail
Go back to Glenn's Home Page